Iraq Refugees Registration Data Analysis, 2007-2008 •March: Military action against Iraq by the US-led coalition forces.
•May : UN Security Council Resolution 1483 removed economic sanctions. •August : UN Security Council Resolution 1500 establishes the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq.
Events in Iraq •August: Car Bomb in Najaf. •August: Canal Hotel Bombing, kills at least 22 people, including the United Nations' Special Representative in Iraq.
•March: Suicide attacks in Kerbala and Baghdad.
•April-May: Month-long US-Led military siege of the city of Falluja. •June: UN Security Council Resolution 1546 endorses the formation of a sovereign Interim Government of Iraq. •August: Fighting in Najaf.
•January: Elections for a Transitional National Assembly.
•April: Escalation of violence. (President and Prime Minister are selected by the Parliament of Iraq. )
•September: Intensified attacks in Baghdad.
•October: New constitution approved by popular vote.
•February: A bomb attack on the al-Askari Mosque (Golden Mosque) in Samarra; a wave of sectarian violence follows.
•April: A new government is formed. •May and June: Violence continues. •June: Car bombings in Baghdad.
•January to June: Attacks and car bombings in Falluhja, Ramad, Ninewa and Baghdad. •August: Truck and car bombs hit two villages in Sinjar. •August: UNHCR issues the Eligibility Guideline for Iraqi Asylum Seekers. •September: A new visa regime applicable to Iraqis introduced in Syria.
•February: New visa regime applicable to Iraqis introduced in Jordan. •February: Turkish military action in northern Iraq. om BC.c
w.B •October: Violence against minorities in Mosul. ww om •November: The Iraqi parliament approves a security pact with the United States under ed fr Adapt © www.unhcr.org which all US troops are due to leave the country by the end of 2011.
- 1 Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
INTRODUCTION
In response to displacement of Iraqis, UNHCR introduced a large-scale registration mechanism in the Syrian Arab Republic ( Syria ), the Hashimite Kingdom of Jordan ( Jordan ), Lebanon , the Arab Republic of Egypt (Egypt ), Turkey and the Islamic Republic of Iran ( Iran ) at the end of 2006. In August 2007, UNHCR issued an eligibility guideline which defined Iraqis from central and southern governorates as prima facie 1 refugees. 2 During 2007 and 2008, UNHCR registered a total of 272,000 Iraqis in those countries. This report is an analysis of UNHCR’s existing registration data, aggregated to examine the profile of registered Iraqi refugees in the neighboring countries and to gain a better understanding of their displacement patterns. UNHCR’s registration data from 2007 and 2008 alone, contains the profiles of 491,500 individuals from Iraq. While the registration system was up and running by early 2007, many refinements on the data collection process were introduced during those two years and are continuing to take place. As a result, there are some No Data showing in some topics of analysis in this report.
The analysis is organized in a cross-referencing manner, according to six different queries described below. The data parameters for each query be summarized as follows:
CHAPTER 1: WHO ARE THE IRAQI REFUGEES? This chapter examines the registration data of the active caseload at the end of 2008 (311,000). The active caseload refers to registered population whose file has not been closed as a result of resettlement, assisted return or other reasons. The data from the active caseload describes the profiles of existing refugees at the end of 2008.
CHAPTER 2: WHO REGISTERED WHEN? The data of all those registered during 2007 and 2008, irrespective of whether their cases are closed in the mean time or not, are collated and analyzed (272,000). The registration trend portrays when Iraqis approached UNHCR for registration and whether the profile changed according to the registration time.
CHAPTER 3: WHO REMAIN IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM? Those who remain as the active caseload changes over the period of time as some decide to go back to Iraq others depart for resettlement and various others close their files with the UNHCR. In this chapter, the dataset of the active caseload between 2007-2008 is examined on a quarterly basis.
CHAPTER 4: WHEN DID IRAQI REFUGEES ARRIVE IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM? In this chapter, the data of all registered Iraqi refugees with UNHCR in those six countries are examined according to their times of arrival (491,500), irrespective of when they have registered.
CHAPTER 5: WHO ARE THE VULNERABLE IRAQI REFUGEES?
The data of all those registered in 2007 and 2008 with one or more Special Needs are examined according to their time of arrival (88,000).
CHAPTER 6: HOW DOES THE REFUGEE PROFILE TRANSLATE TO THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN? In this chapter, the data of active
caseloads at the end of 2008 is used once again (311,000, of which UNHCR©UNHCR/L.Chedrawi staff entering registration data of two 191,000 from Baghdad). This time, the data is mapped to the places of elderly Iraqi refugees in Syria origin in Iraq , in order to examine the refugee profile across the governorates of origin.
1 Prima Facie: Persons recognised as refugees, by a state or UNHCR, on the basis of objective criteria related to the circumstances in their country of origin, justifying a presumption that they meet the criteria of the applicable refugee definition. 2 The UNHCR Eligibility Guideline for Assessing the International Protection Needs for Iraqi Asylum Seekers (August 2007).defines those from Sulymania, Erbil and Dahuk not on a Prima Facie basis, but on individual status determination. A new guideline was issued in April 2009.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The profile of Iraqi refugees, in general, is urban with about two-thirds originating from Baghdad of which more than four-fifths of adults had primary education or higher and at least one half of the adults were engaged in a job prior to displacement. (See Chapter 1, page 6-11).
GENERAL PROFILE OF IRAQI REFUGEES (Active Caseload at the End of 2008) • Male/female ratio is 53:47, with just less than a third of population is the age group between 18-59 years old. • The exception to the above is Lebanon where 71% of the population is male . Male aged between 18- 59 is 57% of the all active caseload in Lebanon. • The religions are divided between 56% Sunni , 21% Shiah, 14% Christian, 4% Islam (Not Specified) 4%, Sabean/Mandean , less than 1% Yezidis and less than 1% with No Data/Others. • The ethnicity of the population is mainly of Arab background (83%). • Among the adult population, 13 % have No Education . • Prior to displacement, among the adult population, 17% had No Occupation , 26% were Student and another 17% as Housekeepers . • About two-thirds of the refugees came originally from Baghdad . • On average, about a third are registered with Special Needs.
The registratio n peaked in July 2007 and April 2008. In the second half of 2008, more than half of those who approached UNHCR to register came prior to registration. This, compared to the fact that more than 80% registered within a year of their arrival in early 2007, appears to indicate the increased hardship faced by the refugees. (See Chapter 2, page 12-19).
The monthly increase of the active caseload began to slow down after the second half of 2008 as new registrations decrease and cases closed increase steadily. (See Chapter 3, page 20-24). The profile of the active caseload does not change greatly in each quarter signaling that the profile of those who close their files is proportional to the general population.
3 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis
The time of arrival of the refugees to the countries of asylum may reflect the spread of violence in Iraq. (See Chapter 4, page 25-33). Among those registered with UNHCR in 2007 and 2008, 31% arrived prior to 2003, 20% in the second half of 2006 and 10% in the first half of 2007. T The latter of the two influxes match with the spread of violence after the bombing of the Golden Mosque in Samarra, whereas the former indicates the increased vulnerability of those who have been in the countries of asylum for a long period of time and the relevance of UNHCR in assistance. It is interesting to note that the ratio of different religious and ethnic backgrounds change depending on the time of arrival and the country. Similarly, those who came from Baghdad constitute 51% of those who arrived before 2003, 84% of those who came in the second half of 2006 and 60% of those who came in the second half of 2008.
About one third of all those registered with UNHCR in 2007 and 2008 fall under the category of having one or more Special Needs . (See Chapter 5, page 34-39). This trend is consistent throughout the different times of arrival to the countries of asylum. While the ratio of those with Special Needs is higher in Syria 36-44%, and Lebanon 17-30%, it is lower in Turkey 7%-15% and Iran 3-14%. The majority of those with Special Needs register with an Important Medical Condition or Special Legal and Physical protection .
The active caseload profile marked on the map of Iraq shows that, depending on the governorates of origin, some specific profiles emerge. (See Chapter 6, page 49-51). This is particularly evident when examining urban areas such as Baghdad and Basrah and also across the north, the centre and the south. The large proportion of the population is from Baghdad . The refugees from both Baghdad and Basrah show a similar profile. Those who are from the southern governorates are often found in Lebanon, whereas those from the northern governorates are typically in Turkey . Those from Dahuk , Baghdad and Kerbara contain a higher ratio of people with Special Needs than other governorates. When comparing religious backgrounds on the reported profile of the current population in Baghdad with that of the refugees displaced from the same neighborhoods, in some cases, the refugee profile is opposite the current population, whereas in others, the same pattern is followed.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EVENTS IN IRAQ…………………………………………………………………………... 1 INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY…………………………………………………………………... 3 TABLE OF CONTENT……………………………………………………………………... 5 CHAPTER 1: WHO ARE THE IRAQI REFUGEES?...... 6 CHAPTER 2: WHO REGISTERED WHEN?...... 12 CHAPTER 3: WHO REMAIN IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM?...... 20 CHAPTER 4: WHEN DID IRAQI REFUGEES ARRIVE IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM?...... 25 CHAPTER 5: WHO ARE THE VULNERABLE IRAQI REFUGEES?...... 34 CHAPTER 6: HOW DOES THE REFUGEE PROFILE TRANSLATE TO THE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN?...... 40 SOURCES/DISCLAIMER………………………………………………………………….. 52 ANNEX……………………………………………………………………………………….. 53
- 5 Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
CHAPTER 1: WHO ARE THE IRAQI REFUGEES?
In this section, the data of the active caseload 1 at the end of 2008 in Syria (224,343), Jordan (52,656), Lebanon (10,208), Egypt (10,182), Turkey (8,292) and Iran (4,943) are analysed in order to understand the profile of existing registered Iraqi refugees. Syria is hosting the majority of the registered refugees (72%), followed by Jordan (17%).
Age Gender Breakdown
Generally, male-female breakdown is found to be female 47% and male 53%.
The largest age group is 18-59 years old (57%), followed by 5-17 years old (28%), 0-4 years old (9%) and 60+ years old (6%). Male/female breakdown within each age group follows largely the general ratio.
While all other countries follow more or less the standard pattern, Lebanon is an exception as 71% of the population is male and male of 18-59 years old is 56% of the total active caseload.
1 Active Caseload implies those registered Iraqis with UNHCR whose record has not been closed. A case can be closed when refugees depart to resettlement or return, as well as any other reasons such as death, which UNHCR is aware of.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 6
Religion
The largest religious affiliations of Iraqi refugees are Islam (81%) – Sunni (56%), Shiah (21%) and Unspecified Islam (4%). Minorities include Christian (14%), Sabean /Mandean (4%) and Yezidis (1%).
Both Syria and Jordan largely follow the above trends, whereas Egypt show the same trend for the Sunni/Shiah ratio but there are fewer Christian (2%) and no recording on Sabean/Mandean and Yezidis .
In Lebanon , the trend is different that Shiah is the largest group (47%), followed by Christian (25%) and Sunni (20%).
In Iran , over half are registered with Shiah .
In Turkey , Christian (57%) is the most common religion, followed by Sunni (24%), then Unspecified Islam (10%) and Shiah (7%).
- 7 Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
Ethnicity
Majority of refugees are Arab (83%), followed by Chaldean (8%), Assiryan (4%), Armenian (1%), Kurd (1%) and Turkmen (1%).
Syria and Jordan’s demography follows the above pattern.
The pattern in Iran comprises only of Arab (62%), Kurd (9%) and a very small number of Turkmen .2
In Turkey , there is a large Chaldean population (45%), followed by Arab (24%). It also contains Turkmen (13%) and Kurd (6%).
In Lebanon ,3 the majority is the Arab population (62%) and the Chaldean ratio is also relatively high (16%).
The absolute numbers of Kurd (2,888), Chaldean (13,980), Armenian (1,455) and Assiryan (6,759) are the highest in Syria .
Education
In an analysis of education levels, the data for all registered adults above 18 is used. Some 16% of the registered Iraqi refugees have University degrees, whereas 14% is with No Education . Overall, 33 % of all registered adults have attended Grade 9 -14 and 29% Grade 1-8.
Syria follows the general pattern.
Jordan and Egypt have the largest portion of Iraqi refugees with University degree (24%).
Lebanon 4 has the least registered with No Education (2%).
Iran also has a small number of No Education (7%).
Turkey has the lowest University education level (10%) and a large number of refugees with No Education (17%).
2 Iran: 29% of refugees are registered with Others/No Data . 3 Lebanon: 18% of refugees are registered with Others/No Data . 4 Lebanon only has data on education for 56% of the registered adult population.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 8
Occupations 5
This analysis is again based on the active caseload adult population above 18 years old. Over 457 occupations recorded; a number of occupations are grouped together such as Medical, Teaching and Services.
The 10 most common occupations are shown here. About 17% of the all active cases are registered with No Occupation and 26% as Student at the time of displacement. The next highest occupation stated is the group of Housekeepers at 17%. Medical Professions constitute around 2% and Teaching 3%. There is no significant difference between the countries.
Governorate of Origin 6
About three quarters of the active caseload come from Baghdad , followed by Ninewa (9%, Mosul is located within), Basrah (3%), Diyala (3%) and Anbar (3%).
Generally speaking, the majority of refugees in all host countries come from Baghdad . The highest ratio of those from Baghdad is recorded in Egypt (93%), the lowest is in Turkey (49%). The majority of refugees in Turkey come mostly from the neighboring governorates of Ninewa (32%), Tameem (14%), Sulaymaniyah (1%) and Dahuk (1%).
In Syria , the majority of refugees come from Baghdad (72%) and Ninewa (10%) whereas all other recordings (Anbar, Basrah, Di yala) are low (maximum 4%).
5 For 21% of the active caseload the occupation has not been recorded and was excluded for calculating the percentages. 6 Around 22% of the active caseload has not indicated their governorate of origin. In Iran, there is no data registered for the Governorates of Origin.
- 9 Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
Jordan hosts a similar ratio of refugees from Baghdad (79%); the next highest rate is Basrah (5%), followed by Ninewa (3%) and Diyala (2%).
In Lebanon , refugees coming from Baghdad are 64% of the active caseload; others include 10% from Ninewa and 5% from Diyala , 4% from Basrah and the others are at 2% - 3% ( Babylon, Kerbala, Najaf, Thi-Qar ).
Refugees with Special Needs
About 16% are registered with Special Needs such as Important Medical Condition , Women/Children/Older Person at Risk , Disabled and Special Legal and Protection Needs . Multiple Special Needs can be registered per person. Important Medical Condition has the highest concentration of Special Needs in all countries, identified by more than half of those with Special Needs. This is followed by Special Legal and Protection Needs .
Syria has the highest percentage of persons with Special Needs (37% of the total active caseload), followed by Lebanon (18%), Jordan (17%), Egypt (13%), Turkey (8%), and Iran (5%).
In Syria and Lebanon , the ratio of Special Legal and Protection Needs is slightly higher than Important Medical Condition.
In Syria, one in five of all registered cases have an Important Medical Condition whereas in Jordan , it is one in eight.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 10
Year of Arrival
In this section, data from the year of arrival – when a refugee arrived in the country of asylum – amongst the active caseload is examined.
Nearly two-thirds arrived in the countries of asylum in before 2007, especially in Syria (62%), Jordan (72%), Lebanon (59%) and Egypt (81%). This indicates a longer period of displacement for many refugees which in turn signals the increasing vulnerability of those refugees.
In Syria , the periods where the largest number of refugees arrived are 2006 (42%), 2007 (30%), and pre-2006 (20%).
The majority of the active caseload in Lebanon arrived prior to 2006 (39%) and also in 2007 (28%). Arrival in 2008 was about a third of the number that arrived in 2007.
In Egypt , the majority arrived in 2006 (64%). in Jordan , the largest proportion arrived prior to 2006 (45%).
Iran has the highest ratio of arrival in 2007 (75%) and Turkey has the highest ratio of arrival in 2008 (67%), although Syria has the largest absolute number of arrival for both years.
- 11 Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
CHAPTER 2: WHO REGISTERED WHEN?1
Registration Trend
The Samarra bombing in February 2006 triggered an exodus of Iraqi refugees into neighbouring countries. In response, UNHCR began the large-scale registration of Iraqi refugees in early 2007. At the beginning of the programme the waiting period for refugees to register took up to six months. UNHCR’s offices were overwhelmed by the number of people who approached for registration. The chart below shows both monthly registration and cumulative trends.
The average case size is 2.5. The peak registration periods are July 2007 (18,610) and April 2008 (17,414). From January to July 2007, an average of +/-15,000 registered each month. From August 2007 to April 2008 the average registration is +/-12,000 per month. Since May 2008, the average monthly registration reduced to fewer than 7,000 cases each month. During the last six months of 2008, registration slowed, but did not cease.
Syria consistently register the largest number, always above 58% of the total registered in all six countries.
Jordan ’s registration trend shows that significantly more refugees came for registration in 2007. Registrations in 2008 are 30% of 2007 figures.
Lebanon’s registration trend in 2008 is 30% of the 2007 figures.
In 2008, Egypt registration figures are 19% of what was registered in 2007.
Refugees in Iran are mainly registered in July and August 2007.
Contrary to the general trend, in Turkey , nearly twice as many are registered in 2008 than in 2007.
1 This chapter looks at all refugees who registered or activated their documents in 2007/2008.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. -12
Time between Arrival and Registration
In this section, the time between arrival and registration – how long a person waited before registration – is examined. It should be noted that the maximum waiting period in 2007 was about six months, and was less than six weeks in 2008. While the time range is affected by the registration waiting period, it also indicates an increased relevance of UNHCR’s assistance. It portrays an increased vulnerability of Iraqi refugees; if/when those who have been displaced more than one year approach the office for registration. The analysis looks at every quarter in 2007 and 2008.
In Syria , the majority register within a year of arrival; for example, 90% of those who register in the first quarter of 2007 did so within a year. During the first and second quarter of 2008, fewer arrived and fewer are registered within the year of their arrival (58%; 44%). Conversely, there has been a gradual increase, up to the second quarter of 2008, of those arrived more than two years ago (3% - 18%) and those who arrived between one and two years ago (7% - 38%). In the second half of 2008, those who arrived less than a year prior to registration were at 64%, those who arrived one to two years before registration decreased to 16%, and those who arrived more than two years ago remain at 20%.
The trend in Jordan is consistent in that since the second quarter of 2007, those who arrived more than two years before registration constitute between 10% - 25% of the total, whereas those who arrived between one to two years prior to registration constitute between 10% - 23%. Those who arrived less than a year before registration are always between 58% -78%.
In Lebanon, the majority register within a year of arrival, about 80% of all those registered consistently throughout 2008. In the first quarter of 2007, the number of those who arrived more than a year ago is about a quarter of all registered, whereas in the second quarter of 2008, it increases to about a third.
In Iran , the proportion of those waiting less than 6 months is high throughout, averaging 91%.
In Egypt , 72% registered within less than 6 months of their arrival in the first quarter of 2007; the trend reduced to an average of 30% for the rest of the period,.In the second quarter of 2007, those who arrived 6 months to a year before registration more than doubled to 58%; however by the end of 2007, the trend reduces to 12% and stays more or less the same for the reminder of the period. Those who arrived one to two years prior to registration reached 38% in the first quarter of 2008. However the trend began to reduce as those who arrived more than 2 years before registration increased from 8% in the first quarter to 51% in the fourth quarter of 2008.
Turkey has significantly less people registered after more than a year (between 1% and 18%). In 2008, more than 95% registered within six months of their arrival.
13 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
Age Gender Breakdown
The average ratio throughout the period is 51% male and 49% female . This ratio is consistent within the different age groups. There are less female (47% - 49%) than male registering in 2007; however, this trend is reversed once again in 2008 (51%).
The 0-4 years old represent 9% of the total registered population, and the gender ratio is as above. Almost three times more male and more than twice as many female registered in the fourth quarter of 2008 than in the first quarter of 2007.
The 5-11 years old represent 1515% of the total registered. Again there is generally more male (52%) than female . There are no differences between the quarters.
The 12-17 years old represent 13% of the registered refugees; the gender ratio becomes more unequal with 53% of male . Less people, in this group registered in the fourth quarter of 2008 (-2%) in comparison with the first quarter of 2007.
The 18-59 years old accounts for 55% of the registered and the gender balance follows the average above. This group is more in 2007 than in 2008.
The 60+ years old represent 6% of the total registered; this group is the only group that has more female than male (47%). The ratio of registration for this group remains the same throughout the period.
The above pattern is mainly applicable to Syria and Jordan.
In Lebanon the overall male /female ratio is 66% male and 34% female . This general gender disparity is the highest in the age group 18-59 years old with 73% male . Most male of this age group registered in the first three quarters of 2007. The group 60+ years old is below average for both male (2%) and female (4%).
There is a gender disparity in Iran 2, where on average 59% are male and 41% are female .
Egypt follows the general pattern except for the second quarter of 2008 when three times as many male and twice as many female in the 60+ years old group register compared to the first quarter of 2007.
Turkey follows the general pattern but shows less increase of female age 0-4 years old. The trend of age group 12-17 years old is reversed with more arriving in 2008 than in 2007. Throughout the period age group 18-59 years old is B.Augier above average (60% -70%) whereas group 60+ years old is below average ©UNHCR/
(3% - 5%). Registration process of Iraqi refugees in Syria.
2 Iran: 50 %of the age group is unknown.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. -14
Religion
The majority are registered as Sunni (60%). Shiah (19%) is the second-most followed by Christian (14%). The registration of the respective religions is evenly distributed throughout the period. The main registration period of Sabean/Mandean (54% of all Sabean/Mandean ) and Yezidis (78% of all Yezidis) took place the second half of 2007.
Syria and Jordan follow the general pattern above.
In Lebanon the average breakdown is different with Shiah (44%), Sunni (21%) and Christian (33%). The proportion of Christian is more from the fourth quarter of 2007 onwards reaching 50% in the second quarter of 2008. This is mirrored with a decrease in the ratio of Shiah registration, whereas Sunni remains between 13% - 30% throughout the period.
Iran follows a different breakdown of Others (36%) and Shiah (58%). The majority of Others register in the second half of 2007.
Egypt 3 follows the general trend, however the ratio for Sunni is more between 72%-67% and the proportion for Christian is below 3% in 2007. A significant proportion of Christian (9%) registered in the third quarter of 2008.
In Turkey from the third quarter of 2007 onwards Christian make up the largest part of the caseload. By the end of 2008, the proportion reaches 77%. From the second to the third quarter of 2007, the largest group is Sunni (43%). From 2008 onwards, the Sunni population remains the second largest population (12% - 33%).
3 In 2008 the numbers of Unspecified Islam increased to 73%.
15 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
Ethnicity
The vast majority of registered refugees are Arab (85%). The minorities are made up of Armenian (1%), Chaldean (7%), Kurd (2%) and Turkmen (1%) . Most Turkmen (67% of all registered Turkmen ) Kurd (62% of all registered Kurd ) and Armenian (48% of all registered Armenian ) register from the second to fourth quarter of 2007.
Syria and Jordan follow the same pattern. Syria has a slightly higher than average ratio of Arab between 84% - 95%. In the second quarter of 2007, Syria registered a higher than average proportion of Kurd (3%). Jordan has more Chaldean being registered in the first quarter of 2007 (9%) than in the fourth quarter of 2008 (4%). Fewer Kurd are registered in the first quarter of 2007 (1%). The number gradually increases and a larger proportion (4%) is registered in the last quarter of 2008.
In Lebanon , since the fourth quarter of 2007, Chaldean make up 22% - 39% compared to an average 13% in the period before. Most Kurd are registered in the fourth quarter 2008 (10%). %).
Iran’s 4 pattern changes the most over the charted period. Arab constitutes the largest ethnic group, in the first quarter of 2007 (72%), in the third quarter of 2007 (56%), in the second quarter of 2008 (86%) and in the fourth quarter of 2008 (68%). The second largest group are the Kurd who registered mostly in the first quarter of 2007 (9%), in the fourth quarter of 2007 (4%) and in 2008 (26%).
The majority of all registered in Egypt are Arab (83% - 99%). Kurd (2%) in the second and Chaldean (3%) in the third quarter of 2008 are the only other groups with more than 1%.
In Turkey , Turkmen is the major group in the second quarter of 2007 (40%), but has been decreasing thereafter. From the first quarter of 2008 onwards the Chaldean make up the majority of the caseload (53% - 63%).
4 Between 3% - 37% of Iran’s registered do not have their ethnicity recorded. There are less records with Other/No Data from the second quarter of 2008 onwards.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. -16
Education
Among those registered, on average 19% have a Grade 1-8 education only, 38% have a Grade 9-14 education and 24% University education. Whereas the ratio for Grade 9-14 education remains steady (+- 2%) throughout the registration period. The proportion for Grade 1-8 education increases from the first quarter of 2007 (14%) to the fourth quarter of 2008 (26%). More registered with University education in the first three quarters of 2007 (29%) than in the reminder of the period (18% - ©UNHCR 24%) with the fourth quarter of 2008 being the lowest. School courses organized by UNHCR in Damascus
In Syria , during 2007 an average of 25% of registered refugees has a University education. This drops to 18% in 2008, while the average proportion of those with only a Grade 1-8 education rises from 16% to 22% during the same period.
In Jordan , many are registered with University education throughout the registration period (above 35%). There are also a relatively high number with Grade 9-14 education (average 33%) throughout the registration period with the highest in the first quarter of 2007 (39%).
In Lebanon , on average, 38% of the adult population have a Grade 1-8 education, 24% have a Grade 9-14 education and 19% have a University education. More adults (24%) with University education registered in the first quarters of 2007 and 2008 than in the rest of the period. Both the Grade 1-8 education and the Grade 9-14 education ratio remain more or less the same throughout the period,except for a decrease in Grade 9-14 (17%) in the third quarter of 2008 which is mirrored by an increase of Grade 1-8 (46%) during the same period.
In Iran, those with a University education drop from 30% among those registered in the beginning of 2007 to 2% by the end of the year. The average proportion of those with a Grade 1-8 education (26%) is almost equal to the proportion with a Grade 9-14 education (27%) throughout most of the period. Conversely, in second and third quarter of 2007 Grade 9-14 education is more than 10% higher than having a Grade 1-8 education and in the second quarter of 2008 Grade 1-8 education charts more than double of Grade 9-14 education.
In Egypt , 37% of registered refugees have attended a Grade 9-14 education. This ratio remains more or less the same (+- 6%) throughout the charted period. The proportion of those with a University education increased from an average of 35% in 2007 to 40% in 2008.
In Turkey, registered refugees with a University education decrease from the first quarter of 2007 (23%) to the last quarter of 2008 (13%). The average percentage of those with a Grade 9-14 education (34%) is slightly higher than for the ones with a Grade 1-8 education (30%).
17 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008
Occupation
Of the 10 most common occupations of those registered, the principal group is Housekeepers (26%). The proportion of Housekeepers is less than 20% in the first quarter 2007 and rises to above 30% at the end of 2008.
Student is the second largest group with an average 11% of the registered, the ratio is higher in 2007 (11% - 13%) than in 2008 (7% - 10%).
The No Occupation category is the third group at 8%. However this classification varies over time, from 14% in the first quarter of 2007, it then decreases to 8% by the end of that year, and once again to 11% the last quarter of 2008.
Teaching Professions represent an average of 4% and Medical professions are less than 2% throughout the period.
Military and Police occupation stays within the range of 2% - 5% throughout the period.
Governorate of Origin
More than 70% of those registered come from Baghdad . The majority of displaced in Syria come from Baghdad (71%) with a peak among those registered in the first quarter of 2007 (83%); and a decrease in the fourth quarter of 2008 (59%). Many come from Ninewa (10%), which peaks in the fourth quarter of 2008 (17%).
In Jordan the majority of those registered (80%) come from Baghdad, the highest numbers are register in the first quarter of 2007 (89%). Many refugees also come from Basra (on average 5%) with an increase from 2007 (3%) to 2008 (6%). Others are from Ninewa (3%), Muthanna (2%), Anbar (2%), Diyala (2%) and Babylon (+-1%).
In Lebanon, the those who registered (64%) come from Baghdad with a peak in the first quarter of 2008 (70%). Many refugees come from Ninewa (12%), with more registering in the fourth quarter of 2008 (22%).
The majority of displaced in Egypt , also come from Baghdad (92%). This ratio decreases among those registered in the second quarter of 2008 (88%), whereas the proportion coming from Basrah increases to 5% from an average of 2%.
As it is the case for all other countries, in Iran 5 many of registered (55%) come from Baghdad . The proportion of those from Baghdad are more in 2007 (69%), and less in 2008 (41%). The ratios for those coming from Najaf, the geographically closest governorate, averages at around 11% with a peak among those registered in the last quarter of 2007 (15%).
Of those registered in Turkey, about a half comes from Baghdad . This proportion is the highest at the end of the third quarter 2008 (57%). Many of those displaced also come from the geographically closest governorates such as Tameem (average 24%) with a peak in the first quarter of 2007 (62%), but with smaller registered in 2008 (less than 10% throughout). Ninewa (average 24%) mirrors this trend, with the ratio increasing from the second quarter of 2007 (10%) to the first quarter of 2008 (38%).
5 Iran has a high percentage of No Data registered. In this case it is 67%. Additionally, +- 30% are registered as unknown.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. -18
Special Needs
The proportion of those registered with Special Needs remains constant throughout the charted period, averaging 32% (fluctuating +/-3%).
In the third quarter of 2007, the reduction of the Special Needs decrease - compare to the previous quarter- decreases (12%) faster than the registered population (0.3%).
The chart above displays the number of instances of each type of vulnerability, not the number of individuals with vulnerabilities. An individual can register with several vulnerabilities. It is obvious that Important Medical Condition and Special Legal and Physical Protection are the most commonly reported vulnerabilities. In the first half of 2007, the proportion of both cases is quite similar, close to 40% of the total cases. However, by the third quarter 2007, the proportion of those with Special Legal and Physical Protection drops to 26%. From the third quarter 2007, the proportion fluctuates to just below 30%.
In the same period (third quarter 2007), those with Important Medical Condition increased to 46% but fell back to slightly over 40% until mid 2008.
The cases of Women at Risk increases gradually over time from 5% in the first quarter of 2007 to 14% at the end of 2008.
Cases of Child or Adolescent at Risk follow roughly the same pattern.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 19
CHAPTER 3: WHO REMAIN IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM?1
In this section, the changes in active caseload over the period of time is examined. While new registration increases the number of those who are ‘active’ in UNHCR’s record, there are those whose files are closed, be it because of resettlement departures, assisted return or other reasons. The data indicates the number of registered Iraqi refugees who are in the countries of asylum in a given time. The active caseload continues to grow steadily on a monthly basis, though the rate of increase slows down especially after June 2008. The monthly increase of the active caseload reduces by an average of 10% in 2007 and an average of 2% in 2008.
As the increase rate of monthly active caseload slows, the number of cases closed steadily grows. The rate of cases closed increases significantly in August and September 2007, because of the resettlement departures. During 2007, the rate of case-closed is stable (averaging 0.6%). In 2008, the average increases to 1.3%. In both years, the number of case closed is the highest in September. From September 2008 to December 2008 when UNHCR introduced the assisted individual return, the cases closed for Voluntary Repatriation reached a total of 560 refugees.
1 Active Caseload implies those registered Iraqis with UNHCR whose record has not been closed. A case can be closed when refugees depart to resettlement or return, which UNHCR is aware of. Caseload registered or reactivated until end of 2008.
. Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 20
Age Gender Breakdown
Male/female ratio is even, except for the 18-59 years old age group in the first quarter of 2007, with male 9% higher.
In the first quarter of 2007, while the age group of 60+ years old constitutes 3 % of the total population, male/female ratio is 28% - 72%. In the next quarter, male/female ratio of this group is almost even at 48% - 52%. The proportion of the 0-4 years old age group becomes larger consistently, rising from 6% to 14% of the total caseload with the highest portion in the third quarter 2008.
Religion
Amongst the caseload there are no significant changes of proportion among different religious groups. The Sunni proportion ranges between 48% - 58%. The proportion of Shiah ranges between 16% - 21%. Christian ranges between 17% - 26% and this pattern mirrors that of Sunni and Shiah. Baptist range between 3% - 5%, Sabean /Ma ndean between 1% - 2% and Yezidis between 0% - 1%
Syria follows the general pattern with only Sunni being more than average in the second quarter of 2008 (66%). The Christian proportion is less than average ranging from 10% - 18%.
In Jordan, the proportion of Shiah is more than average ranging between 22% - 28% with the highest ratio in the fourth quarter of 2008. The proportion of Sunni is least in the first quarter of 2007 (41%) and most in the fourth quarter of 2008 (61%). Christian follows the above trend except for the last quarter 2008 with a low 10% .
Lebanon shows a different pattern: the Christian proportion constitutes more than average, ranging between 29% - 52%, with more Christian being registered in 2008. The Shiah population is more than average as well, ranging from 29% - 45%, with more Shiah being registered in 2007 than in 2008. This is mirrored by the Sunni proportion.
In Iran , the Shiah (38% - 58%) and Sabean/Mandean (32% - 51%) represents the two main groups.
Egypt follows a similar trend as Syria except for the last quarter 2008 where the proportions for Sunni (43%) and Shiah 11% and Christian (3%) less than in the previous quarter. It is mirrored by Islam Unspecified (42%)
Turkey , has more Christian registered than the other Countries of Asylum, ranging from 47% - 71%, with more being registered in the first quarter of 2007 and in the last quarters of 2008.
21 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Ethnicity
Arab is the highest proportion throughout the charted period, peaking at 81% in the second quarter of 2008, then falling to its lowest of 70% by the end of that year. Chaldean is the second largest ethnic group. In early 2007, the proportion of Chaldean dropped from 14% to 10%. Chaldean again increases to 18% by the last quarter 2007 although in the second quarter of 2008, they once again dropped to 10%. Kurd refugees is relatively stable in all countries +– 1%
All countries follow this pattern except for Jordan
(averaging 6%) and Lebanon (averaging 2%), where the proportion of Arab is more in the last two ©UNHCR quarters of 2008. The profiling of a refugee caseload is done through registration. In Iran the proportion of Kurd is the highest in the Here a woman registering in Damascus last quarter of 2008 (12%).
Education
The average of 40% of the adults who are active caseload have Grade 9-14 education throughout the period . The proportion of those with a Grade 1-8 education increases to 25% by the end of 2008, compared to the average of 17% in 2007. Although starting from a much smaller portion at 3%, those with No Education are 9% at the end of 2008. Almost 1 in 4 adults have a University education. Those with a Post University education are around 2% throughout. The proportion of adults with a Technical/Vocational education is steady between 9% - 10%. There is no tangible difference of trend/pattern between the countries of asylum.
. Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 22
Occupation 2
Within the 10 most common occupations , Student is the highest individual category (25%). The average proportion of Student is higher until the third quarter of 2007 (33%) than from the fourth quarter onwards (19%). Those with No Occupation constitutes the average of 29% until the third quarter of 2007, then increase to more than a third of the adult active caseload of each period. Housekeepers (including housewives) average 23% of the total active caseload. Except for Service Workers at an average of 5%, no other sectors in the 10 most common occupations exceed 5%.
Special Needs
Just less than a third of the whole active caseload is recorded as those with Special Needs. Syria has the highest proportion of those with Special Needs, with an average of 24%. The peak is in the second quarter of 2008 at 27%. An average 20% of the active caseload in both Jordan and Lebanon has Special Needs and the figures remain relatively steady. Jordan’s ratio of those with Special Needs drops to 15% by the end of 2008. Egypt has an average of 13% of the active caseload with Special Needs, Turkey averages 7% and Iran averages 4%. The largest portion of those with Special Needs state that they have Important Medical Condition (34%) and Special Legal and Physical Protection needs (42%). Among those who are active until the second quarter of 2007, Special Legal and Physical Protection is 41% and Important Medical Condition (38%) whereas in 2008 the former averages 31% and the latter ranges between 35% - 43% with the lowest in the end of 2008. Older Person at Risk (2% - 5%), Women at Risk (6% - 13%) and Child at Risk (2% - 5%) proportionally increase over the period of time. The proportion of Disabled remains more or less the same between 5% - 6% of those with Special Needs.
2 Unknown accounts for 22% of all records.
23 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Governorate of Origin
Those from Baghdad represent 84% in the first quarter of 2007 and 62% in the fourth quarter 2008. Those from Ninewa increases from 3% in the first quarter 2007 to 18% the last quarter of 2008. Those from Anbar are on average 3%, Basrah 4%, Diyala 3% throughout the period. All other governorates account for 1% or less of the active caseload.
A.Jungrova
©UNHCR
Two Iraqi refugees during an English learning session at the UNHCR community centre in the Southern suburbs of Beirut.
. Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 24
CHAPTER 4: WHEN DID IRAQI REFUGEES ARRIVE IN THE COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM? 1
In this section, the time of arrival of registered Iraqi refugees is taken into consideration. One of the turning points in the spread of violence inside Iraq was the attack on Golden Mosque in Samarra in February 2006, which in turn led to waves of violence throughout the country, with much taking place in Baghdad during 2007 and 2008. This triggered a large-scale displacement both within Iraq as well as an exodus to neighboring countries. The most notable incidents included, among other things, bomb attacks in two villages of Yezidis Kurds in August 2007 and violence in Mosul in October 2008.
Year of Arrival
The peak of arrival is the second half of 2006 with a fifth of all registered population arrived. This reflects the spread of violence after Samarra Bombing. Between 2003 and the first half of 2006, one third of the registered Iraqi population arrived. Another 39% arrived between the first half of 2007 and the end of 2008.
The above pattern – the highest rate of arrival in the second half of 2006 is followed by a relatively high number in 2007 is applicable to Syria , Jordan , Lebanon and Egypt .
In both Lebanon and Egypt , arrival in the second half of 2007 (4% Lebanon ; 2% Egypt ) is higher than that of the first half of 2007 (3.6% Lebanon ; 1.7% Egypt ).
Iran follows a different pattern: Those who arrived at the last half of 2006 constitutes less than 1%. The highest influx is the second half of 2007 (4% of the total arrived in second half 2007).
In Turkey , arrival gradually increased from the second half of 2006 (1%) up until the second half of 2008 (24%).
1 This chapter examines all displaced persons registered until 31/12/2008; regardless of status and the actual registration date.
25 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Age Gender Breakdown
The age/gender distribution over the date of arrival follows the general pattern of 57% male , 43% female . Male population is slightly higher than female , except for in 2008 when female arrivals are 2% higher. The female ratio is between 36% - 51%.
The ratio of those aged between 0-4 years old increases from 9% in the second half of 2006 to 12% in the first half of 2008. The ratio of those aged between 5-11 years old increase from 10% in the second half of 2006 to 14% in the first half of 2008. Those from 12-17 years old is also increasing from 5% in second half 2006 to 11% in the first half 2008. Contrarily, the 18-59 years old decreases from 72% in the second half of 2006 to 60% the first half 2008. The 60+ years old remain constant with 4% from 2003 to second half of 2008. There is a shift of age groups according the year of arrival. The refugee population becomes younger.
This pattern is applicable to all the countries, though in Jordan the female proportion of the population increases from 2003 (28%) until the second half of 2006 (53%) and the second half of 2008 (50%).
In Lebanon , male accounts for 81% in 2003 but among those who arrived in the second half of 2008, male have equalized down to 54%.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 26
Religion
The religion of those registered also differs depending on the time of arrival and the country. In general, Sunni makes-up 10% of those who arrived in 2003, but grows to 64% in the first half of 2006 and 40% in the second half of 2008. The Shiah proportion is 29% among those who arrived in 2003 and 18% in the second half of 2006; thereafter more or less the same ratio could be noted throughout. The Sabean/Mandean ratio is the largest among those who arrived in 2004 (10%), while it reduces to 1.8% in the second half of 2008. The Christian ratio is the highest among those who arrived in 2004 (38%) and again in the second half of 2008 (35%), whereas it is less among those who arrived in the second half of 2006 (11%). The Others comprises 3.2% of those who arrived before 2008, but less than 1 % in the second half of 2006 and 2.5% in the second half of 2008. The Yezidis ratio is the largest among those who arrived 2007 (1.2%).
In Syria , those who arrived prior to 2003 and registered with UNHCR are largely Shiah (65%), but become fewer among those who arrived in the first half of 2006 (16%); thereafter, the Shiah ratio is averaged between 14% - 17%. Mirroring this change is the increase of Sunni , from 19% prior to 2003 to more than two-thirds in the first half of 2006, thereafter, continuing to be the majority. The ratio of Christian ranges between 41% in 2004 to 10% in 2006, and 20% in the second half 2008. The ratio of Yezedis is the highest among arrivals in the second half of 2007(2%).The ratio of Sabean/Mandean shows the highest among arrival in 2004 (8%) while at other times between 2% - 6%. The ratio of Others is consistent throughout all periods between 0% - 2%.
27 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Jordan follows a similar pattern to Syria . The ratio of Shiah is high among those who arrived prior to 2003 (38%) and in 2003 (55%), as well as in 2004 (35%). Thereafter, it remains between 20% - 28%. Sunni become majority among those who arrived in the first half of 2006 and thereafter, the ratio remains between 57% - 62%. A higher ratio of Christian is observed among those arrived prior to 2003 (28%), thereafter remains between 12% - 19%. While Sabean/Mandean display a higher ratio in 2004 (18%) and 2005 (15%), thereafter the ratio falls to between 0% - 2%. Others have been stable between 0% - 2% throughout the different arrival times.
The Shiah population in Lebanon is higher than found in Syria or Jordan ; the ratio is between 47% - 57% prior to the second half of 2006, 2 and thereafter it reduces between 27% - 44%. The Sunni population constitutes between 9% - 13% of those who arrived between 2003 and 2005; during 2006 and in the first half of 2007, it is more, between 27% - 32%. The following period of arrival up to the second half of 2008 shows the ratio of Sunni between 10% - 19%. As the ratio of Sunni population is reduced, the Christian population increases - among those who arrived in the second half of 2007, it constitutes 47% of all those arrived during that period, compared to 21% in the first half of 2007. Christian comprises 61% of those who arrived in the second half of 2008. The ratio of Sabean/Mandean and Others has been consistent throughout between 0% - 2%, respectively.
In Iran , Shiah population is also a majority between 39% - 76%. The second-largest group consists of Others whose ratio is between 33% - 54%, except for the second half of 2008 (14%). The Sunni population changes between 1% - 10%. It is interesting to note that 3% Christian appears among those who registered in the second half of 2008.
2 Except for prior 2003: The data contains more than half of the registered as Unspecified Islam.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 28
Egypt’s data has a large number of Unspecified Islam, which makes the distinction between Sunni and Shiah difficult; nevertheless, Sunni constitutes a larger portion compared to Shiah . Since 2005, Islam constitutes more than 95%. While Others represent 49% of those who arrived in 2003, this ratio reduces to 9% in 2004 and thereafter between 0% - 4%. The Christian population ratio is the highest among those who arrived in 2004 (9%).
In Turkey, Christian proportion is high in most of the period between 2003 and 2005, the ratio is between 56% - 88%. In 2006 and 2007, it is lower at between 25% - 48%, and in 2008 between 70% - 79%. The ratio of Shiah in 2006 and 2007 is between 4% - 12%.3 Until second half of 2006 Sunni constitutes between 19% - 41% . Others constitutes 9% of those who arrived in 2003, whereas the rest of arrival times show between 1% - 4%. Yezedis compose 0% - 2% consistently throughout the different arrival times.
3 The data shows a relatively large number of Unspecified Islam . (36% in first half of 2006).
29 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Ethnicity
Before 2003, nearly half of the arrivals of those registered, are of Arab ethnic origin. The ratio changes thereafter to three quarters. Prior to 2003, there is Kurd (18%) and Chaldean (9%) registered. Between 2003 and 2008, the ratio of Chaldean ranges between 6% - 23% and Kurd between 1% - 5%.
In Syria, Arab is the majority throughout different times of arrival between 62% - 91%. The ratio of Chaldean is the highest among those who arrived in 2004 (25%), and for the rest of the period remains between 2% -11%. There is a 13% of Kurd among those who arrived before 2003, which reduces to less than 3% from 2003 onwards.
In Jordan , the pattern does not differ greatly between the times of arrival. The Arab majority is between 77%-92% throughout. The second largest group is Kurd between 4% - 10%.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 30
In Lebanon ,4 Arab is less in 2003 (43%), but more in the second half of 2006 (84%). The ratio of Arab population is changed to low once again among those who arrived at the end of 2008 (38%). Chaldean is a relatively small proportion from 2003 until 2007, averaging 11%, but more from the second half of 2007 onwards (39% - 50%).
In Iran, the proportion of Arab is averaging 48% between 2003 and the first half of 2006. From the second half of 2006 to the end of 2007, it averages 60% and increases to its highest among those who arrived in the first half of 2008 (79%). Among those who arrived in the second half of 2008, Arab constitutes 43% and the Kurd 40%. Since 2003 Kurd population was rather low (8% of the population).
In Egypt , Arab is the largest ethnic group, reaching 98% in the second half of 2006. No other group accounts for more than 4%. 5 The highest proportion of Assiryan arrived in the second half of 2008 (1.4%).
In Turkey, Chaldean constitutes 17% among those who arrived prior to 2003 whereas it is 84% among those arrived in 2004; thereafter, it is between 20% - 64%. Among those who arrived prior to 2003, Kurd is 46%, thereafter averages at 5%. Among those who arrived prior to 2003 up to 2005, Arab ethnicity averages 9%, and changes to 24% for those arrived in the first half of 2006, 44% in the first half of 2007, and 14 % in the second half of 2008. The proportion of Turkmen arriving prior to 2003 and up until 2005 averages at 12%, however 43% arrived in the first half of 2006. Among those who arrived in the first half of 2008, Turkmen account for only 1%.
4 Prior to 2003, 83% of arrivals were registered as Other/No Data with regard to ethnic group. This dropped in 2003 and until 2005 the average was 41%. It then dropped again to an average of 7% for the rest of the charted period. 5 Before 2003, the ethnicity of 84% of the population was unknown. Between 2006 and 2008, this figure averages 3% until second half of 2008 where it increases to 30% again.
31 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Education
There is no significant difference between the countries of asylum in the education level of the adult population depending of the time of arrival.
While almost 20% of those who arrived prior to 2003 were registered as having No Education of those who arrived prior to 2003, the ratio of No Education is less among those who arrived from 2003 onwards (3% - 8%). The ratio of those with Grade 9-14 education changes from 7% in 2003, to 41% in 2006 and 34% in 2008. Those with Grade 1-8 education change correspondingly from 45% in 2003, to 16% in 2006 and 26% in 2008. Those with a University education remain relatively steady between 16% - 29%, the highest being among those who arrived in the second half of 2006.
Occupation 6
The 10 main occupations of the registered adults are Housekeepers, Student , Corporate Assistants and Military/Police . There are no significant changes amongst the categories over the period of time. Among those who arrived between 2003 and 2008, Housekeepers ratio increases from 15% to 44%. The Student population represents between 8% - 17%, the highest in the second half of 2006. No Occupation constitutes between 4% - 16%. Military, Medical and Teaching professions are always less than 7%.
Governorate of Origin 7
As can be seen in the chart, the vast majority arrived from Baghdad (51% - 84%), Ninewa (3% - 18%), Basrah (2% - 10%), Anbar (2% - 5%) and Diyala (1% - 4%). About one third of all those registered arrived during the second half of 2006. The highest ratio of those from Baghdad arrived in the second half of 2006 (84%) and the least in pre-2003 (51%) and the second half of 2008 (53%). Those from Ninewa was the least in the second half of 2006 (3%) but the largest in second half of 2008 (18%).
6 The occupation of an average 24% of all registered adults was unknown . The cited percentages are calculated based on the 10 main occupations. 7 Governorates of Origin registered as Unknown were excluded from the calculations.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 32
Special Needs 8
The ratio of those with Special Needs among all the countries is more or less consistent between 21% - 38%.
Syria has the most vulnerable people in proportion to the registered refugee population (43%) . Over 80% of those arrived before 2003 are identified with Special Needs, 66% among those who arrived in 2003. Special Needs account for between 33% - 45% of those who arrived between 2006 and 2008,
In Jordan, the ratio of those with Special Needs is 15% on average, with the highest percentage in 2007 (23%).
In Lebanon , the ratio of the Special Needs is higher among those who arrived after 2006 between 19% - 29%, compared to the prior period (2% - 15%).
Special Needs ratio is relatively small in Iran (1% - 12%) and Turkey (2% - 13%), compared to the other countries. ©UNHCR
Sayda Zeinab clinic in Damascus runs with the support of In Egypt , a smaller proportion of those with UNHCR (2008). Special Needs are found among those who arrived before 2007 (3% - 13%), whereas since 2007 an average of 22% are registered with Special Needs.
8 A more detailed analysis on Persons with Special Needs can be found in the next chapter.
33 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
CHAPTER 5: WHO ARE THE VULNERABLE IRAQI REFUGEES?
In this section, the details of those who registered with Special Needs 1 are examined, so as to understand their profiles. This review of the Special Needs case takes the year of arrival as a prime parameter 2.
The highest year of arrival of those with Special Needs is 2006, followed by 2007 and 2008. In each year of arrival, those with Special Needs constitutes between 30% - 32%.
While this pattern is applicable to Syria , Jordan and Egypt ;3 in Lebanon and Iran , the highest number of those with Special Needs arrived in 2007, whereas in Turkey it is 2008.
The percentage of Special Needs is the highest in Syria (36% - 44%), followed by Lebanon (17% - 30%), Jordan (17% - 24%) and Egypt (13% - 27%) . The ratio of those who are vulnerable is lower in Turkey (7% - 15%) and Iran (3% - 14%).
It is possible for a refugee to register with more than one special need. The average instance looks at the number of Special Needs per person. It is not equal between the countries. 4
In Syria and Jordan , the average instance is higher than that of all countries. The highest instance is found in 2008 in Syria (1.57) and Jordan (1.37).
1 The following categories of Special Needs were looked at:: Child or Adolescent at Risk , Unaccompanied or Separated Child , Disabled , Older Person at Risk , Important Medical Condition , Single Parent , Woman at Risk , Pregnant or Lactating and Special Legal and Physical Protection Needs. 2 This chapter looks at all Persons with Special Needs who registered or activated their case within 2007/ 2008. 3 Egypt did not have any Persons with Special Needs registered who arrived in 2003 and only 3 individuals prior 2003. 4 In Turkey and Lebanon there are occurrences of an average below 1. This is due to the fact that for some refugees Special Needs were registered but the category of Special Needs not specified.
34 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
Categories of Special Needs
The trend of Special Needs changes depending on the time of arrival. Special Legal and Physical Protection needs ranges between 28% - 35% and Important Medical Condition between 25% - 41%. Among those who arrived in 2008, there is higher ratio of Women at Risk (12%), Older Person at Risk (6%), Children at Risk (10%) and Disabled (7%) than any other time of arrival.
Syria and Lebanon follow more or less the same pattern as above.
In Jordan , Important Medical Condition never falls below half among Special Needs instances. The Older Person at Risk is the most common among those who arrived in 2008 (10%).
There is relatively high ratio of those who are Disabled in Iran;5 about one third among those with Special Needs who arrived in 2006 are disabled, while in 2008, Disabled cases makes up a quarter.
Those with Important Medical Condition in Egypt are highest among those who arrived in 2005 (80%) and less among those who arrived in 2006 (66%) 6. Special Legal and Physical Protection remains low (0% - 8%).
Special Needs in Turkey follow a slightly different pattern; Important Medical Condition constitutes the largest portion in all arrival years (47% - 63%) whereas Special Legal and Physical Protection occurs less (1% - 14%). Turkey reports a higher than average ratio of Disabled (14%) as well as Older Person at Risk (13%).
5The caseload of registered Special Needs in Iran remains low until 2005 6Pre 2003 was not considered: Egypt has only three individuals and five instances of Special Needs registered pre 2003
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 35
Age/Gender Breakdown
The Age Gender breakdown among those with Special Needs follows the general pattern: male (54%) and female (46%) 7. Males account for the highest proportion of individuals with Special Needs for all years until 2007. In 2008, the female proportion is 2% higher than males .
The average percentages for all countries are distributed as follows: 0-4 years old (2%), 5-11 years old (6%), 12-17 years old (10%) and 18-59 years old (67%) and 60+ years old (15%). This matches the general age distribution of all registered, except for the fact that the age groups 0-4 years old and 5-11 years old are less (- 5%; -10%) and 18-59 years old and 60+ years old are more (both +9%).
Religion
When comparing persons with Special Needs with the general population, there are no differences in the arrival based on their religious background. Between the countries trends are quite similar among those with Special Needs and the full caseload population. Christian constitutes 16% prior to 2003 but 6% in 2005. From there onwards, the ratio increases and reaches 26% in 2008. Others never exceeds 5%.
Iran has 5% more of Shiah Special Needs than the full caseload and 6% less than Others. Among those who arrived between the pre-2003 and 2006 period, the patterns of Shiah and Sunni are a mirror image of each other: In pre-2003, Shiah is 47% Sunni 30% but Shiah 18% and Sunni 65% changed in 2006. Thereafter Shiah, is always around 18% and Sunni between 51% - 60%.
7The previous chapter looks at all refugees registered before 31/12/2008 whereas this chapter focuses on registration or activation in 2007/ 2008.
36 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
A disparity between those with Special Needs and the all registered population in Lebanon can be found when looking at the average ratios of Shiah and Sunni . For those with Special Needs, 46% Shiah and 24% Sunni are recorded, whereas the full caseload consists of 56% Shiah and 19% Sunni. On average, 4% of those with Special Needs are Sabean/Mandean , but they represent only 0.6% of the full caseload.
Ethnicity
When comparing with the general population, there are no differences in the arrival trends; the average ratios of those with Special Needs and the all registered population are similar with maximum 3% difference.
An exception is among those who arrived in 2008 where Arab with Special Needs account for a 9% higher proportion than within the full caseload. Chaldean with Special Needs account for a 7% lower proportion than the all registered, during the same period.
Education
Those with Special Needs have a similar average ratio for Grade 1-8 (26%) and Grade 9-14 (34%) to all those registered. Equally, the average proportion of those with a University education (19%), Post University education (2%) and No Education ( 9%) is more or less the same, fluctuating by +- 2%.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 37
The proportion of Special Needs with a Grade 1-8 or Grade 9-14 education never falls below 55% at any given time. Whereas, the proportion of those with Special Needs with a Grade 9-14 education ranges between 29% - 38%, the ratio of those with Grade 1-8 education fluctuates between 17% - 36%. The highest proportions of Special Needs with a Grade 9-14 education arrived in 2006, mirrored by the lowest proportion of those with a Grade 1-8 education. The highest ratios of Special Needs with University education arrived in 2006 (27%) and 2007 (25%), whereas the largest group with No Education arrived in 2003 (13%) followed by 2008 (12%). This analysis follows more or less the same pattern as the all registered population.
About a third of those with Special Needs in Egypt and Jordan have a University education and this is above average.
Turkey has the lowest average proportion of people with Special Needs with a University education (10%). The highest average proportion with No Education among those with Special Needs is also found in Turkey (20%).
Occupation
The average breakdown of occupation of persons with Special Needs is similar to the general trend, except for the Student ratio (6%) which is 5% lower than the ratio among the total registered caseload (11%). The category No Occupation is slightly lower among those with Special Needs (6%) than for all registered population (8%), whereas the proportion of Military/Police with Special Needs (5%) is slightly higher when compared to all registered population (3%).
38 - Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008.
When looking at the 10 most popular occupations, Housekeepers (including housewives) is the category with the highest proportion throughout the charted period, averaging 41%. The category of No Occupation charts between 8% (2005) - 11% (pre-2003). Pre-2003, Student constitutes 10%, but in 2008 it is the lowest (6%) among those with Special Needs. This trend mirrors the total registered population except for the Student, where the ratio is the lowest in 2008 (10%) and the highest pre-2003 (29%).
Lebanon also has high levels of No Occupation always above 27% and higher among those who arrived in 2007 (46%). This follows the general trend of the all registered except for 2004 where the ratio for the all registered is lower at 31% compared to those with Special Needs (38%).
Egypt’s ratio of category No Occupation
ranges between 13% - 33%; except among those arrived in 2008 with Special Needs, No Occupation charts 40%, compared to the total caseload No Occupation ranges between 18% - 45% throughout the period with 2008 being the highest. ©UNHCR/L.Chedrawi Iraqi refugee and her young brother at the balcony of their apartment in an overcrowded suburb of Beirut.
Governorate of Origin
Over 77% of those individuals with Special Needs originally come from Baghdad , in comparison with 75% of the general population. The percentage of those from Baghdad among those with Special Needs is more or less the same as the general population, although among those who arrived in 2008 (65%), it is less than all registered population (75%).
In Ninewa, the proportion of Special Needs is 12% among those arrived pre-2003 but 9% in 2007 and 13% in 2008.
Those from Basrah constitute 9% among those who arrived pre-2003 with Special Needs, 3% in 2006, and thereafter stay more or less the same.
No other governorate account for more than 6% throughout the charted period.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 39
CHAPTER 6: HOW DOES THE REFUGEE PROFILE TRANSLATE TO COUNTRY OF ORIGIN? 1
In this section, the refugee profile on maps of Iraq is transferred Profile by Governorate of Origin
The majority of refugees (approx 70%) come from the governorates of Baghdad and Ninewa . Among those who were displaced from Baghdad , 74 % are in Syria , 18% are in Jordan , 3% are in Lebanon , 2% are in Turkey , 4% are in Egypt . From Muthanna and Thi-Quar governorates, fewer fled to Syria (28% ; 52%), and more to Jordan (65%; 38%). A higher proportion of people fled to Lebanon fro m southern governorates, such as Qadissiya (12%), Wassit (13%), Najaf (10%), Kerbala (10%), Babylon (9%), Thi-Qar (9%), Missan (6%), and Muthanna (6%). Those from Basrah fled mainly to Syria (73%) and Jordan (18%). Those who sought refuge in Turkey come from the northern governorates, including Tameem (34%), Sulaymaniyah (24%), Erbil
(12%), Ninewa (10%), and Dahuk 1 In this chapter, the active caseload at the end of 2008 is analyzed. (9%).
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 40
Age Gender Balance
The global average refugee 2 age group is considered to be:
o 0-4 years old 8% o 5-11 years old 20% o 12-17 years old 15% o 18-59 years old 51% o 60 + years old 6%. o Male 51%; Female 49%. The same pattern applies to Iraqi refugees in each governorate.
The Age/Gender distribution is fairly balanced throughout the governorates, except for Muthanna, where the male ratio is seven times bigger for the age group of 18-59 years old. Anbar is also o ut of the national average (49% female ) as the ratio of female is clos e to 52%. Thi-Qar on the contrary, has a higher percentage of male (59%).
2 'Table 13. Demographic composition of populations of concern to UNHCR, end-2007
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Religion
Among those from Baghdad , Sunni is 60%, Shiah 19 %, Christian 14%, Baptist 4%. Among those from Basrah, Sunni is 58%, Shiah 31%, Christian 3%, Sabean/Mandean 4%. Shiah is the majority among those who come from southern governorates of Babylon (52%), Najaf (85%), Kerbala (75%), Muthanna (72%), and Qadissiya (72%). The Shiah and Sunni ratio are almost equal among those who are from Wassit (41% - 36%) and Missan (38%-40%). Sabean/Mandean consists 18% among those from Wassit and 16% among those from Missan . A larger percentage of Christian is displaced from the northern governorates, from Ninewa (32%), Tameem (24%), and Dahuk (22%), Erbil (20%). Most Yezidis are from Dahuk (14% and Ninewa 5%).
2
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 42
Ethnicity
Arab is the majority of those displaced from 14 out of 18 governorates (60%-99%). The ethnic composition of the northern governorates, Tameem, Sulaymaniyah , Erbil , Dahuk , Ninewa is more diverse: with Arab (20%- 44%), Turkmen (7%-22%) Kurd (11%- 70%) and Chaldean (2%-17%). The Assyrians are also registered (less than 1%) in those governorates and in Baghdad. Tameem has the highest proportion of Turkmen (22%), and Kurd (11% - 56%). The largest proportion of Chaldean is displaced from Ninewa (17%) , Dahuk (13%) , Erbil (12%,) Tameem (10%) , and Baghdad (8%).
Iraqi Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 43
Education
The pattern between the governorate s is quite similar, apart from a slight differentiation between some governorates that have big cities ( Baghdad, Basrah, Erbil ) more refugees attended a Grade-9-14 education level. For Baghdad Grade 1-8 is registered for 29% Grade 9-14 is register for 31%. In the governorates, the average ratio of those with Grade 1-8 education is 37% whereas as in Dahuk it is 48%, Ninewa 42%. Grade 9-14 in the governorates is just a bit lower than Baghdad, 28% for Najaf , 24% for Anbar. Among those from Wassit, more than 50% of registered refugees have a University education.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 44
Occupation
The general pattern of occupation between all governorates is similar. An average of 20% has No Occupation. About one fifth to one quarter of active caseload is registered as Student. Qadissiya and Sulaymaniyah are the origin of the most of with Medical professions. A higher percentage of Teaching Professions are registered among those from Missan (6%) and Erbil (5%). Teaching is under 4% in the other governorates.
Iraqi Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 45
3
Special Needs 3
Around 33% of the total caseload are registered with Special Needs. Those with Special Needs from Baghdad constitute 25% of all registered.
More than a third of those from Baghdad are with Special Needs.
Areas with the highest percentages of Special Needs are Dahuk (35%), Kerbala (35%) and Baghdad (34%). The smallest percentages come from Sulaymaniyah (23.%), Tameem (25%) and Muthanna (25%).
3 The percentage is calculated with the population originally from the governorate
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 46 PROFILE BY GOVERNORATE OF ORIGIN BAGHDAD
Origin of Refugees from Baghdad
Most of the refugees were displaced from the Beladiyahs (Municipalities) of Al Jihad and Al Baiya , Al Doura, Al Mansour, Rusafa and Adhamiyah . Overall approx. 45 % of the refugees come from Masafee, Saydiyah, Jihad, Adhamiyah and Sheikh Marouf Hayyis (districts). Masafee ( Dora ) was home of the highest concentration of refugees (10% of the Baghdadi caseload). The distribution in other areas of Baghdad is more diffuse and constitutes 50% of the refugees.
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Religion in Baghdad
There is a Shiah concentration population concentrated in Rusafa (East part of the river), whereas Sunni concentrated areas are in Al Mansour and Al Dora (West of the river). In the western part of Baghdad, religion is more diverse in general. Refugees displaced from Baghdad Al Jadida are registered as Sunni (40%), Shiah (13%), Christian (42%) and Sabean/Mandean (1%), The current majority reported is Shiah. About 3% of all Baghdadi refugees are from Mustansirya (Palestine Street), now a Shiah area. They registered as Sunni (62%), Shiah (19%), Christian (11%) and Sabean/Mandean (3%). In Adhamiyah , now a Sunni concentrated area, the breakdown of the registered refugees is Sunni (80%), Shiah (13%), Christian (3%) and Sabbean/Mandean (2%). Those from Masafee, now an area with a Sunni majority, are registered as Sunni (49%), Shiah (17%), Christian (25%) and Baptist (6%). Those who are from Al Khadra, Ameryia, and Hateen, averaged and combined, consist of Sunni (70%), Shiah (20%) and Christian (4%) The breakdown of caseload from Mansour is composed of Sunni (62%), Shiah (24%), Christian (6%) and Sabbean/Mandean (3%).
1 The current religion breakdown background shown here is taken from the COSIT data set (2007) on religion per Muhala (neighborhood) . This is now a primarily Shiah area.
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 48
Education
Baghdad is following the pattern of the national level. I t is interesting to see a higher concentration of refugees with university level in Yarmouk and Mansour (approx 30%)
Iraqi Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 49
Occupation
There are many occupations registered, the most common groups are shown as: Student , Various is embedded for this map only Services fund in other chapters and Medical Professions as well as Teaching Professions . Approx. 30% of the caseload is registered has No Occupation . Overall, more than one quarter of refugees are registered as Student. This pattern is applicable to all areas of Baghdad . A high percentage of Medical Professions were found to be from the Hayys of Babil (7% of those from this area), Muthanna Zayuna (5%) and Qadisiya (3%).
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Special needs versus Active caseload in Baghdad
Most of the refugees with Special Needs from Baghdad took refuge in Syria (40%).
Those registered with Special Needs are mainly from Masafee (4 %), Saydiyah (2%), Shamasiya, Baghdad al Jadida , Jihad and Mansour (each less than 2%). This reflects the general pattern of the places of origin.
Iraqi Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008 - 51
Sources:
UNHCR Registration Database
UNHCR Syria 2008, UNHCR Lebanon 2008, UNHCR Turkey 2008, UNHCR Egypt 2008,UNHCR Jordan 2008, UNHCR Iran 2008. All Statistics are provisional and subject to change.
Geographic Dataset
Borders: UNGIWG The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations. Armistice Demarcation Line (Israel) The designations employed and the presentation of material on this map do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the United Nations concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area of its authorities or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
River Baghdad Built-up areas, Governorates: Governorate (2008): 18 governorates The Iraq Coalition Database 2005 (ICDB05 CENTCOM Sectors) is "UNCLASSIFIED, Distribution Authorized to DoD, DoD Contractors, and MCFI (Multinational Coalition Forces-Iraq)." It is intended for use, in whole or in part, by Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) engaged in the reconstruction of Iraq at the UNCLASSIFIED, UNRESTRICTED level. USCENTCOM has authorized the release of the ICDB Sectors (1-7) to NGOs and other humanitarian assistance (HA) components. This data may be downloaded and provided to NGOs and foreign HA components only for the sectors in which they are actually working. Components/GIL/MSOB will report weekly to CCJ2-JOMG: What data was released to whom; which sectors; number of CDs or hardcopy/paper.
Hayys (2007) Beladiya: OCHA Iraq/IOM Iraq
Muahallah (2007) and related data: COSIT http://cosit.gov.iq/english Central Organisation for Statistic and Information Technology/Religion dataset in Baghdad.
All maps are projected in Longitude/Latitude WGS 84. Following these references, all co-ordinates are mapped under the same projection.
Photos: All the photos are from the UNHCR. Cover page L.Chedrawi
CartONG with the UNHCR compiled, validated, and cross checked the quality of the data provided by the UNHCR. For any questions on the data, comments enquiry to [email protected] www.CartONG.org . © UNHCR June 2009
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 52
ANNEX
Maps
Baghdad reference map and Hayys gazetteer IDP presence in Baghdad Refugees and IDP returns 2008 and 2009
UNHCR-IRAQ-KML
Google Earth awareness layer, which displays some of the data, movies and photos in an easily accessible and understandable format.
Resources www.unhcr.org/iraq.html http://www.iom-iraq.net/ http://ochaonline.un.org/Default.aspx?alias=ochaonline.un.org/iraq http://cosit.gov.iq/english/index.php http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/dbc.nsf/doc104?OpenForm&rc=3&cc=irq
Iraq Situation Update
UNHCR Situation Report May 2009
Appendix Charts
Some country profile with the registration dataset could be downloaded from Internet. They are organized country by country and follow the order of the chapters. Available from www.unhcr.org
Iraq Refugees Registration Data Comparative Analysis, 2007-2008. - 53
June 2009 www.unhcr.org
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